Parental Rights & Obligations

questions & answers

Question: the mother of my children left me with our 2 children 8 yrs ago and I have been the sole parent on my own since they were small were not married. what are her rights to come get them and move them with her?

Answer:

A biological parent of a child has the right to petition for joint, joint-legal, joint-physical, parenting time, or sole custody. The court will order custody according to the best interest of the child, as stated in Arizona Revised Statute 25-403.

 Definitions of different types of custody in the state of Arizona can be found under statute 25-402 . On the this website, there is an abundant amount of information regarding child custody and the various terms that accompany it. In particular, this link.

According to Arizona statute 25-403.01, the court designates custodianship of a child to the individual, or individuals that reflects the best interest of the child. Family law matters can be very complex. For detailed legal advice, consult an attorney. See this link for possible legal aid options.